Moving Home with Kids
The kids can be really helpful when you move – or not. It depends on whether you include them and make it an adventure. There are lots of ways that children can help, especially packing their own things, deciding on what they’ve grown out of and choosing colour schemes for their new rooms.
It is also quite natural for them to feel uncertain about the future. It’s important to let them know that the whole family is moving, including them and their pets. Here are some suggestions for getting the kids involved and excited about moving.
• Tell your kids. Experts generally recommend honest communication with your children, including when the family is moving. Make sure everyone has time to adjust to the idea. Let them know why you’re moving and what the benefits are for them.
• Kids, meet your new home. If you’re moving locally take the kids to see the new home, even from the outside. Or show them the house and neighbourhood online.
• Get to know the area through your kids’ eyes. Make sure you know something about sports clubs, schools, stores and parks so you can answer questions your children may have about the local area. Naturally older children will be concerned about losing their social networks.
• Let’s talk. Take the time to talk about the move with your kids, about how it is going to affect them. Older kids may have some suggestions for making the move smoother for them.
• A family adventure. Encourage your children to be involved in the move. They can help house hunt, choose colour schemes, buy new furniture and, depending on their age, pack some of their own things.
• Snap shots. Give them a picture of their new house to show their friends.
• School’s out. If the move involves moving schools, think about timing it around the school year to minimise the disruption for your children.
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